Historic Feat for Bengaluru
The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has officially entered the Guinness World Records by planting 14.95 lakh saplings within a span of 12 hours. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced the achievement on June 28, 2026, highlighting the record under the category 'Most plants planted by a team in 12 hours'. This massive afforestation drive underscores the state government's commitment to enhancing green cover in Bengaluru.
Record-Breaking Plantation Drive
The plantation event saw the participation of thousands of volunteers, forest officials, and BDA staff working in coordinated shifts across multiple sites in the city. According to the BDA, saplings of native species were selected to ensure high survival rates. The Guinness adjudicators verified the count meticulously, confirming the record. Chief Minister Shivakumar stated, 'This is a proud moment for Karnataka. Our collective effort has set a global benchmark for environmental conservation.'
Impact and Future Plans
The drive aims to combat urban heat islands and improve air quality in Bengaluru, which has faced rapid urbanization. The BDA plans to monitor the saplings' growth with community involvement. This initiative aligns with the state's broader goal of increasing forest cover to 33% of its geographical area. The record also brings international attention to Bengaluru's sustainability efforts.
